Madrid Travel Guide

Madrid Travel Guide

A lively, sexy city which beguiles visitors as much
with its vibrant soul as its many cultural treasures, Madrid is
unquestionably one of Europe's great urban
destinations:

The glorious art scene and nightlife are the two main
reasons to choose a holiday in Madrid, Spain's energetic capital
city. Madrid's many art galleries contain such a wealth of great
artworks that anyone would be hard put to see them all, while the
legendary bars and nightclubs rock till the small hours. Art lovers
are naturally enthralled by Madrid's Golden Triangle of world-class
art museums: The Reina Sofia, The
Prado, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. However, the city has
something to offer anyone who enjoys exploring the world's great
capitals, with many lovely parks, sprawling flea markets,
fascinating museums, grand palaces, historical monuments and a
renowned restaurant
scene.

Best time to visit Madrid

The sky above Madrid is usually blue, brushed with puffy white
clouds, and the city enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate.
Hordes of tourists descend on Spain for the hot summer months of
June, July and August and Madrid is no exception; however, the city
is perhaps at its best in the shoulder seasons of spring and
autumn, in May or October, when it is less crowded and not as
scorchingly hot. Read more on Madrid's Climate and
Weather.

Beyond Madrid

Madrid is located smack in the centre of Spain, making it a
convenient travel hub as well as a glorious destination in its own
right. Many worthwhile excursions from the city are possible and
the most popular daytrips for travellers in Madrid include visits
to four spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the magnificent
hilltop city of Toledo, the charming
village of Cuenca, the ancient
Roman town of Segovia, and the royal
complex of the Monastery of San Lorenzo
de El Escorial.

Getting there

The Madrid Barajas Airport is the busiest airport in the country
and the entry point for many international visitors to Spain. The
airport is huge and modern, situated just eight miles (13km) from
central Madrid. Get more information on Airports in Madrid.

Did you know?

-Madrid has been the capital of Spain since the 17th century and
is the largest city in the country.

-Flamenco originated in Madrid and still provides wonderful
entertainment for visitors and locals.

-Madrid is said to enjoy more blue skies than any other European
city.

Become our Madrid Travel Expert

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If you are a local, a regular traveller to Madrid
or a travel professional with time to contribute and answer occasional forum questions, please contact us.